Jacob’s Ladder Africa (JLA) has partnered with the University of Nairobi to empower young Kenyans (aged 20-25) through the Renewable Energy Innovation Challenge. This competition aims to harness their creativity to develop renewable energy solutions to tackle the pressing issues of climate change and unequal energy access in Kenya.
After a month of research and development, 24 finalists presented their innovative ideas to judges, including industry leaders like Phyllis Migwi (Microsoft East Africa) and Chebet Lesan (Bright Green Energy). The top three winners impressed with their practical applications:
- SunTrack empowers individuals and businesses to make informed decisions about solar power by providing tools to track their energy consumption.
- Umeme Sense tackles energy wastage in industries and commercial buildings by implementing smart metering technology for remote monitoring and real-time optimization.
- Mobilab, a crowd favourite, envisions solar-powered buses revolutionizing education in Kenya. These mobile labs would bring hands-on STEM learning directly to schools, promoting clean energy and bridging the digital divide.
HyPro Station, another innovative concept, garnered significant attention. This proposed green hydrogen generation plant targets the multi-billion dollar carbon offset market while creating jobs and securing clean energy for communities, businesses, and essential services like hospitals and water supplies.
The true testament to the competition’s success lies beyond the top winners. All 24 finalists will benefit from a nine-month incubation program offered by JLA’s greenLabs program. This program provides invaluable mentorship, training, and networking opportunities, equipping these young entrepreneurs with the tools they need to turn their ideas into reality.
Speaking at the Renewable Energy Innovation Challenge Demo Day, Karen Chelang’at, Chief Innovation Officer, Jacob’s Ladder Africa said; “At the heart of JLA’s mission is the proliferation of green solutions, with African youth at the centre. Through the Renewable Energy Innovation Challenge, we have been able to mentor and journey with young people from across the country who have come up with impressive innovative solutions, proving that the youth have what it takes to ideate and implement green solutions that solve current and pressing socio-economic issues in the country.”
